Trucking Accidents
Award-Winning AttorneysBurleson Truck Accident Lawyers
Holding Commercial Drivers Accountable in Johnson County
More than 600 people were killed in accidents involving commercial vehicles in Texas in 2018, and thousands more suffered serious injuries.
If you've sustained injuries or had a loved one killed in an accident involving a commercial vehicle, a Burleson trucking accident attorney at Coontz Cochran has the experience to help you pursue compensation.
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Causes of Truck Accidents in Texas
In the United States, truck drivers are held to very tight schedules and must travel great distances in short amounts of time. This leads to fatigued driving, which can result in falling asleep at the wheel. To combat this, drivers may resort to smoking or drinking caffeine, or even drinking alcohol, any of which can affect their instincts and reflexes on the roadways.
Distracted driving is another significant contributor to truck accidents. This can involve activities such as using a mobile phone or eating while driving, all of which can divert attention from the road. Poor vehicle maintenance can also play a role, whether it involves brake failures or tire blowouts, and represents a failure on the part of the trucking company to ensure road safety.
Securing Your Right to Fair Compensation After a Truck Accident
When a person is injured in a trucking accident, they must go up against the big trucking companies and their insurance companies when filing a claim. Both are guaranteed to fight, offering a full settlement, if anything at all.
It is crucial to have knowledgeable legal representation when dealing with these challenges. At Coontz Cochran, we assist our clients in understanding the complexities of insurance policies and claims procedures, thereby empowering them to make informed decisions. We ensure that no detail is overlooked, whether gathering evidence or negotiating with insurers, to consistently strive for the best possible outcome.
Contact our trusted truck accident attorney in Burleson at (888) 858-0536 to schedule a free consultation.
Understanding Truck Accident Liability in Burleson
Truck accidents involve multiple parties that could be liable, including the truck driver, the trucking company, the manufacturer of the truck parts, or even the entity responsible for the truck's maintenance. Understanding liability is a complex task because it requires a detailed analysis of the circumstances surrounding the accident. For example, if a truck's brakes fail and cause an accident, the manufacturer of the brake system might be held accountable, along with the trucking company and maintenance provider.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets regulations for truck maintenance and driver conduct to ensure safety. Failure to adhere to these regulations can constitute negligence. At Coontz Cochran, we make it our mission to thoroughly investigate each aspect of a trucking accident to establish the appropriate party responsible for damages, ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve.
What to Do Immediately After a Truck Accident
The moments following a truck accident can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps is crucial for your safety and future legal actions. Firstly, ensure that you're safe and seek medical attention for any injuries, even if they seem minor. Document the accident scene comprehensively by taking photographs of the vehicles involved, the road conditions, and any visible injuries.
Collect contact information from witnesses, as their testimonies can be invaluable. It is also important to avoid making any statements about the accident because they may be misinterpreted or used against you. Finally, contacting a skilled Burleson trucking accident lawyer from Coontz Cochran can help secure your rights and provide peace of mind during the legal process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accidents
What Are the Most Common Causes of Truck Accidents?
Truck accidents can be caused by a variety of factors. Some of the most common include driver fatigue, which remains a significant concern due to the pressure of tight schedules. Additionally, poor vehicle maintenance and driver distraction contribute significantly to the occurrence of accidents. Factors like adverse weather conditions and improperly loaded cargo also increase the risk of accidents occurring. Each of these causes requires a different approach to investigation and legal action, which is why experienced legal counsel is crucial.
How Is Fault Determined in a Truck Accident?
The fault in a truck accident is generally determined by looking at various pieces of evidence, including police reports, eyewitness accounts, and any available video footage. An investigation will often determine if any traffic laws were violated and whether there were failures in following FMCSA regulations. Legal responsibility may rest with multiple parties, including the driver, employer, or vehicle manufacturer, depending on the specifics of the fault chain.
What Types of Compensation Can I Seek After a Truck Accident?
In the aftermath of a truck accident, victims can pursue several types of compensation. These may include coverage for medical bills, both current and future, lost wages, and the potential loss of earning capacity. Pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life are also factored into compensation. In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded if gross negligence or willful misconduct is proven.
Why Is a Truck Accident Claim More Complex Than Other Vehicle Accidents?
Truck accident claims are often more complex due to the number of parties involved and the strict regulatory environment governing commercial vehicles. Unlike typical car accidents, truck accidents may involve federal regulations, multiple insurance coverages, and hefty liability considerations. Effective legal guidance can significantly aid in navigating this intricate landscape to effectively build a strong claim.
How Long Do I Have To File a Claim After a Truck Accident?
In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, this timeframe can vary depending on the specifics of the incident and the parties involved. It is critical to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure that all necessary legal steps are taken promptly, maximizing the potential for a successful outcome.
Choose Coontz Cochran for Your Truck Accident Claim
Commercial trucks can weigh as much as 40 tons when fully loaded. When traveling at speeds of up to 65 or 70 mph on the highways, they can easily cause catastrophic injury or death in the event of a crash.
Make sure that your immediate and ongoing medical treatment is covered by the liable party's insurance by establishing negligence and winning the payment you need. Hire a Burleson trucking accident lawyer from our firm at your earliest convenience to fight for justice and fair compensation.
Additionally, our firm is dedicated to providing compassionate support throughout the legal process. We understand the emotional and financial stress caused by such incidents and are committed to easing this burden. Our approach is not only strategic but also empathetic, aimed at fostering a strong attorney-client relationship based on trust and open communication.
Contact our trusted truck accident attorney in Burleson at (888) 858-0536 to schedule a free consultation.
Our Testimonials
How Our Injury Attorneys in Burleson Can Help You
Since 1990, our firm has been the legal resource of choice for clients in Burleson, throughout Johnson County, and across Greater Fort Worth. We know how serious your case is to you, and we are committed to representing you in a way that best helps you obtain a favorable outcome.
As a Board Certified lawyer in both Personal Injury Law and Civil Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, Attorney Greg Coontz brings extensive insight to each case he takes that helps his clients obtain the full and fair compensation to which they are entitled. When fighting insurance companies, having an experienced injury lawyer in Burleson on your side is critical.
Whether the issue at hand involves negotiating settlements or preparing for trial, our team devotes ample resources to ensure you have the best possible representation. We are familiar with the rigorous practices of insurance companies and use this knowledge to protect your rights and interests. The trust local families have placed in us over the years serves as a testament to our unwavering commitment to client success and justice.
When it comes to family matters such as divorce or child custody, with more than 20 years of legal experience, Attorney Jeff Cochran is the Burleson family law attorney you can count on. His long list of satisfied clients and favorable outcomes testifies to his ability to protect his clients and help them protect their family relationships.
Family law cases often involve sensitive and emotionally charged situations. At Coontz Cochran, we approach these matters with empathy and professionalism. Attorney Cochran’s extensive experience enables him to advise on complex domestic issues, ensuring that client priorities are respected and pursued vigorously. We work diligently to achieve solutions that secure the well-being of you and your loved ones.
Frequently Asked Questions About Personal Injury in Burleson
What Should I Do Immediately After an Accident?
In the immediate aftermath of an accident, ensuring your safety and well-being should be the top priority. Seek medical attention right away, even if injuries seem minor, as symptoms could manifest later on. It's crucial to document the scene by taking pictures and gathering contact information from any witnesses. These steps can be vital when presenting your claim to an injury lawyer in Burleson. After addressing immediate concerns, contacting your legal representative at Coontz Cochran will help you navigate your next steps and preserve your rights.
How Do I Know If I Have a Valid Personal Injury Claim?
Determining the validity of a personal injury claim involves several factors: proving the other party's negligence, showing that the negligence caused the injury, and confirming that you're suffering damages as a result. At Coontz Cochran, our injury attorney in Burleson will evaluate your situation during a free consultation. Collecting evidence, medical records, and any witness statements will assist in building a strong foundation for your claim, thereby increasing the chances of a favorable outcome.
What Types of Compensation Can I Receive?
Compensation in personal injury claims typically falls into various categories, including medical expenses, lost wages, emotional distress, and pain and suffering. In some instances, punitive damages may be awarded if the defendant's actions were particularly egregious. Each case is unique, and our team at Coontz Cochran will work diligently to ensure you receive fair compensation reflective of all your incurred losses and future needs.
What Is the Role of an Injury Lawyer in My Claim?
The role of an injury lawyer in Burleson is multifaceted, focusing on advocating for your rights throughout the legal process. From negotiating with insurers to representing your interests in court, an experienced lawyer from our team will ensure your voice is heard. We handle all the legal complexities so you can focus on your recovery, providing thoughtful guidance on each step you need to take.
How Long Does It Take to Resolve a Personal Injury Claim?
The duration of a personal injury claim can vary depending on several elements, including the nature of the injury, the willingness of parties to negotiate, and court schedules. While some claims can be settled within a few months, others that require litigation may take a year or longer. At Coontz Cochran, we strive to expedite the process while maintaining thoroughness and diligence, ensuring you receive the justice and compensation you deserve in a timely manner.
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“Greg and Jeff are both masters at law. From settlements, divorce law and family legal either are awesome.”
- Christina -
“Thanks to Jeff, I now have custody of my kids and I could not be more grateful”
- Todd -
“Their office staff has been incredible, they’ve put me at ease with my case and kept me informed throughout the process.”
- Former Client -
“Greg was knowledgeable and very informative about what was going on during our case. He kept us up to date with the process and made it as easy for us as could possibly be.”
- Rebecca -
“Mr. Coontz has always been very helpful and informative at the times we have needed an attorney.”
- Traci
Why Choose
Coontz Cochran?
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Individualized Care
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AV® Rated for Ethics & Skill
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Texas Board Certified
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Serving Burleson & Johnson County
Since 1990 -
Award-Winning Trial Attorneys
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Tailored Legal Representation
